Amateur Radio
Emergency Communications
Basic Training
ARRL EC-001
March 29, 2014
ALACHUA County ARES/RACES
EMCOMM Training
Northern Florida Section ARRL
Original Training Presentation developed By AD7FO Spokane County AEC
1
LU 1
What is a Communication Emergency
• Occurs when a critical communication failure
exists that puts the public at risk.
• A variety of circumstances can overload or
damage critical day to day communication
systems…
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Storms that knock down communications infrastructure or lines
Fires in telephone equipment buildings
Vehicle penetration into 911 communications center
Buried fiber optic cable cut by backhoe
Disruption in power
Terrorist attack
Disaster like earthquakes, tsunami's, hurricanes,
ice storms, forest fires, volcanic eruptions, etc
2
LU 1
ARES/RACES EMCOMM Volunteers
• Volunteers come from a wide variety of
backgrounds and have a wide range of skills.
• Share a desire to help others without personal
gain of any kind
• Train and practice to improve their
communication skills
• Can work together as a team and
take direction from others
• Can think and act quickly under the stress and
pressure of an emergency
3
LU 1
Where does Amateur Radio Fit In?
• A Skilled and equipped communications resource for our
Served Agencies*
• We do Public service events to practice our skills
(March of Dimes, Five Points Marathon, Veteran’s Day Ceremony, Operation Santa Delivery)
• We do practice drills with our Served Agencies to
improve our skill in a more realistic scenario and to
demonstrate our skills
• We are not a single communication channel, system or
network, we are dynamic and can adjust to the needs of
the situation
* Served Agencies are those we have commitments both local and national through ARRL agreements to provide
communications when called upon like NOAA (SKYWARN), Red Cross, Emergency Management, Hospitals, etc.
4
LU 1
Where does Amateur Radio Fit In?
• We are “communications commandos”
• We are licensed and have allocated frequencies
for local, national and international communication
• We can dynamically enlarge and expand our
communications network as the situation changes.
• We practice many of the needed skills for emergency
communication in our daily amateur radio activates
• Directed nets
• HF communications, Changing bands as necessary to maintain
communication
• Field Day
• Mobile operation
5
LU 1
What Amateur Radio ECOMM is not
• We are not first responders, will not be the first on scene
• We have no authority and can not make decisions for
others
• It is your decision if you can participate or not, especially
if these decisions affect your own health and welfare
• You are not in charge
• You are there to temporally fulfill the needs of a Served
Agency who's communication system is unable to do it’s
job
• It is not your job to backfill another job when the agency
is short of personnel. Your job is communications. You
can however help in other areas if you are qualified and
do not compromise your primary job of communications
6
LU 1
Day to Day versus Emergency Comm.
• In day to day communications there is no pressure to get
a message through and no one’s life is dependent on
your getting a message through
• Emergency communication can involve
non-Amateurs and Amateur operators working together
• Emergency operations occur in real time and
can not be put off to a more convenient time
• Emergency communications must be staffed and set up
quickly with little or no warning
• Following net protocol and giving short, concise
messages is imperative
7
LU 1
Day to Day versus Emergency Comm.
• Unlike home operations, emergency stations must be
portable and easy to set up quickly
• Emergency operation may carry over several hours to
several days
• Emergency communicators may need to interact
with several organizations simultaneously
• Emergency communication fills in where
commercial systems fail from not having
enough reserve capacity. Amateur radio
operator skill, equipment, and
knowledge can create additional
communications capacity in a very short time
8
LU 1
Communicating is job #1
• While we are skilled operators, with impressive equipment,
and systems in place, our job is to communicate for our
Served Agency by any appropriate communication method
available to us
• If asked to pass a complex message or detailed lists and a fax
machine is available then it might be a better choice than
radio voice communication.
• Always use the best method available and appropriate for the
traffic that needs to be communicated
• If the target recipient only has an FRS radio or CB radio it
would be appropriate to use them. Our message handling
skills will work on any communication link, including using a
telephone
9
LU 1
A Communications Emergency Anatomy
• In early phases of many disasters there is no immediate
need for communications services. This phase might
occur during a severe storm watch.
• You can use this time to monitor the situation to prepare
to deploy if and when a request for assistance comes.
• Once a potential need for more communications
resources is identified, a Served Agency will put out a
call for volunteer communicators.
• You could be asked to operate from an emergency
operations center or field location.
• Do not count on electrical power being available at the
location you are sent to.
10
LU 1
A Communications Emergency Anatomy
• In some ARES/RACES organizations there is a
designated Rapid Response Team (RRT) that can
deploy with a minimal capability in a very short time.
The RRT would be backed up by a more robust
response in an hour or two.
• In a larger response a resource or logistics team may be
needed to coordinate incoming volunteers and resources
to direct those volunteers and resources to where they
are needed most.
• In a large event there may be multiple nets in operation
on different frequencies.
11
LU 1
Communications Emergency Anatomy
• As an event progresses traffic may increase, be sure you
prepare for this during the initial phase when traffic is
lighter.
• For a long term event, operator rotation, food & water,
and sleeping accommodations will need to be
considered.
12
LU 1
LU1 Review
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A communications emergency exists when critical
communications systems fail or are not available
and the public is put at risk.
At the end of a communications event or exercise it is
important to review the effectiveness of the response
and look for ways to improve the next time.
It is not appropriate for an emergency communicator to
make demands on the agency being served.
The function of a Rapid Response Team (RRT) is to
deploy a quick response in a short time.
Do not use person to person voice (grapevine) to
transmit you messages.
13
LU 2
Amateurs as professionals
The served agency relationship
• Your attitude is everything! It is more important than
your radio skills and equipment. Historically speaking
attitudes of some Amateur Radio volunteers has been
our weakest point. As one Served Agency once put it
“working with ham radio operators is like herding cats”
• Although our name says “amateurs” it’s real reference is
to the fact that we are not paid for our efforts. We are
professional and have the skills and equipment to do an
excellent job when called upon.
14
LU 2
Who Works for Whom
• When serving an agency keep in mind that we are and
are viewed as un-paid employees of that organization. If
we keep this in mind our relationship with the agency will
be on track.
• It does not matter if you are an ARES/RACES member
or one of the agencies regular volunteer force, they will
treat us the same.
• It is a misconception that volunteers do not need to take
orders. You are expected to comply with instructions
from a Served Agency as long as you are able to carry
them out safely and do not constitute something that is
against FCC regulations (such as going onto the police
frequencies).
15
LU 2
Professional Emergency Responder View
• Unless a positive long term relationship exists between
the professionals and volunteers, Professionals are likely
to view the volunteers as less than useful. They do not
want to do OJT (On the Job Training) during an
emergency event and need to know they can
depend on the folks they are working with.
• Volunteers may be viewed as “part-timers” whose skill
level and dedication can not be depended upon when
needed.
• Working successfully with our Served Agencies during
drills and exercises can make a big difference in the way
ARES/RACES operators are viewed.
16
LU 2
Performing Non-Communication Roles
• It has been said that it is a hard and fast rule that
communication should be our only role. The answer is
yes and no.
• In today’s fast paced emergency responses there is not
enough time for a rigid set of rules. Communication
must move at the same speed. Today’s reality is that
any job that involves communication may be what
we are asked to do. For this reason we need to have
an understanding of what our Served Agencies expect of
us.
AD7FO June 2006
17
LU 2
Typical Radio Roles We Might Perform
• Radio operator using Amateur or Served Agency
radio systems.
• Dispatcher organizing the flow of personnel, vehicles or
supplies.
• Field observer watching and reporting weather
or other conditions.
• Damage Assessment, recording & reporting conditions.
• Searcher, providing communications for a search and
rescue team.
18
LU 2
Specific Agency Relationships
• At a national level ARRL has agreements in place with
many agencies:
• Memorandums of Understanding (MOU’s)
• Statements of understanding, (SOU)
• Statement of affiliation (SOA)
• Some of the agencies where agreements exist are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Red Cross
Salvation Army
Department of Homeland Security
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
NOAA/National Weather Service - SKYWARN
Local Department of Emergency Management (DEM)
19
LU 2
Talking to the Press
Do Not Talk to the Press
• The press is looking for any information they can find and you will
most likely know something they would like to know.
• It is not your role to be disseminating information to the public.
There will be a Public Information Officer assigned to the event or as
part of the responding agency you are serving. Refer all questions
from the press and others to the event or agency to the PIO.
• No matter how persistent the questioner is you are not authorized to
disseminate information. If they do not leave when asked, talk with
your ARES/RACES or Agency management personnel and ask
them to resolve the problem.
20
LU 2
Operating Where You Are Not Known
• When you are in an area away from home monitoring a local net and
hear an emergency call for local ARES/RACES members, do not
just show up.
• If you are willing and able to help, check into to the net and advise
the net control your capabilities and your availability. They will
determine if you can be utilized.
• Do not be offended if your offer to help is refused. The local net
control is thinking about his/her team dynamics, operator skill level
needed (yours is unknown to them), specialized training, whether or
not more operators are required, local access credentials
(background checks) and insurance issues.
21
LU 2
Workman compensation & Legal Issues
• In some States Workman's Compensation is extended
to volunteer workers working on behalf of a government
or non profit organization. This is a complex issue and
needs to be explored in advance of a call out.
• Volunteers providing services to government agencies
are provided immunity from liability by federal law
through the Volunteer protection act of 1997, 42 U.S.C.
section 14501. There are exceptions, check details of
the act before assuming your activity is covered.
22
LU 2
LU2 Review
1.
2.
3.
Your main job as an emergency communicator is as a
radio operator using amateur or Served Agency radio
systems.
In the role of a modern emergency
communicator you may be asked to
serve any function that includes
communication.
If you are asked by the Served Agency
to do a task that falls outside the FCC
rules, discuss the situation with them
and develop an alternative solution.
23
LU 2
LU2 Review
5.
6.
If you are operating as an emergency
EMCOMM group and receive an inquiry
from the press refer them to the Served
Agencies PIO (Public Information Officer).
Your attitude will have the most effect
on your relationship with a Served
Agency
24
LU 3
Network Theory
The Design of Emergency Comm. Systems
• The study of information transfer between multiple
points is known as “Network Theory”
• Network theory can be thought of as the process of matching
a particular message to the best communication pathway.
The best pathway efficiently transfers the information utilizing
the minimum of the available communication resources while
accurately and dependably transferring the information.
• By participating in Served Agency emergency planning hams
can incorporate fundamental concepts of network theory into
their plans so that appropriate modes and resources are
available for a real emergency
25
LU 3
Single vs. Multiple Destinations
• In most cases our communication is from one
person/site to another. This is point to point
communication that may be monitored by other sites or
individuals who need to know what is going on, or who
may be able to provide requested resources.
• Messages for multiple destinations are called broadcast
messages. This might be a weather advisory that is of
interest to everyone or an open request for resources
from anyone on the net.
26
LU 3
Message Precision vs. Accuracy
• Precision is not the same as accuracy. Accuracy is
important in all our message handling.
– “The hiker has been found in the meadow and in good health”
some mistakes in this message at the character level (spelling)
will still allow the information to be accurately received and
understood.
– A list of names, request for medical supplies, etc require
precision at the character level when being sent or received,
especially when voice communication is used.
• It is important to understand the level of precision
needed. Packet is a good choice for high precision
messages but may be to cumbersome for simple
communication where voice is quicker and easier.
27
LU 3
Complexity -Timeliness - Priority
• Detailed instructions may be simple to send via voice but
if the instructions are too long, the person on the other
end may not get it correct. Precision may not dictate
written communication, but complexity might.
• Timeliness of a message needs to be considered. As
you plan your message transmission order, consider if a
delay can be tolerated or not.
• Priority traffic: If you receive a message that you are told
is a priority message, stop what you are doing and send
it immediately by the fastest appropriate method.
28
LU 3
Communication Methods
• Telephone- (land line and cellular)
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One to one
Requires infrastructure
May be overloaded
Not good for high precision messages
May not have coverage (cell phones)
• Fax
– Utilizes phone network
– Good for high precision messages
• Two way Voice Radio
– One to one or broadcast messaging
– Not good for high precision messages
29
LU 3
Communication Methods
• Trunked Radio systems
– Already at high utilization, and sky rocket during an emergency
– Radios (users) have assigned priorities, getting a higher priority
requires reprogramming the radio
• Packet Radio
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–
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Good for high precision messages
Can provide permanent record of message (printed/stored)
Good for broadcast messaging (multiple addresses)
Easily forwarded to another station (with or without notes)
May not be reliable for marginal transmission paths
Not good for graphics transmission
30
LU 3
Communication Methods
• Store and forward systems
– Bulletin boards
– Mailboxes
– Good when sender and receiver are not simultaneously available
• Other
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–
–
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ATV –Amateur TV (fast and slow scan)
Satellite communication
Internet
Human courier
31
LU 3
Planning and Preparation
• The key to successful emergency communication is
effective planning and preparation.
– What kind of information will need to be communicated?
•
•
•
•
•
Long detailed messages
Simple status checks, information, questions
Maps or other graphic content
How frequent will messages need to be sent and received
Think about where you may be deployed and how you would
operate from there. (Special Needs: Food, Water, Medications?)
• Think about the problems you will encounter and plan to handle
them in advance
• Go kits for simple communication and more complex
communication such as packet and Win Link-2000
• Periodic checks on the gear and supplies in you go bags
32
LU 3
LU3 Review
1.
A secure mode should be used to communicate a
list of injuries or causalities
2.
Fax would be good for sending high precision, lengthy
and complex messages, and graphics like maps.
3.
A packet bulletin board would be good for non time
critical messages and reference material when sender
and receiver can not be available simultaneously
33
LU 3
LU3 Review
4.
The pitfall of Telephones, Cellular Phones
and Trunked Radio systems is that they
all require a complex central switching
system that is subject to failure in a
disaster situation
5.
Sending a shelter list via an office FAX
would be an example of efficient
communication. Remember efficient
communication does not need to
involve a radio.
34
LU 4
•
To be effective in an emergency situation;
–
–
–
•
Emergency Communication
Organization & Systems
Your team must know and trust each other and each others
capabilities
Must understand their role as a leader or follower
Must be able to solve problems that arise
ARES® provides structure, training and practice to
accomplish the above. ARES® has been part of the
ARRL since 1935
35
LU 4
Emergency Communication
Preparation/Training
• Unless a positive long term relationship exists between
the professionals and volunteers, Professionals are likely
to view the volunteers as less than useful. They do not
want to do OJT (On the Job Training) during an
emergency event and need to know they can
depend on the folks they are working with.
36
LU 4
Emergency Communication
Planning & Organization
• The key to successful emergency communication is
effective planning and preparation.
• Organization is critical to any emergency response.
Without an organization that plans and prepares in
advance, an Amateur Radio emcomm response is likely
to be disorganized and ineffective
37
Northern Florida
ARES Organization
LU 4
SM
ARRL Northern Florida Section
Paul Eakin, KJ4G
WB4OMM
Steve Szabo
SEC
DEC
From
Surrounding
Districts
WA4JD
Allan West
KG4VWI
Susan Halbert
W4UFL
Jeff Capehart
Santa Fe District
DEC
EC
EC
From
Surrounding
Counties
W4UFL
Jeff Capehart
Alachua County
38
LU 4
Northern Florida ARES
Santa Fe District
39
LU 4
RACES
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service
•
•
•
•
Created by the Federal Government after
World War II
Provides rules to address the need for Amateur Radio
operators as an integral part of state, county or local
Civil Defense agencies (known as Emergency
Management) during a time of national emergencies or
war.
RACES has authorization to operate even if the
President or FCC suspend normal Amateur Radio
operation.
At one point in time some Civil Defense agencies were
RACES licensed for Amateur radio with amateur
licenses. These are no longer issued, and can no
longer be renewed.
40
LU 4
Other Organizations
Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network
(SATERN)
– Used for logistical communication between offices and health
and welfare messages
– At local level ARES, REACT and other groups help support their
radio operations
National Traffic System (NTS)
– Organized and scheduled nets on amateur radio to pass
messages, including third party messages.
– Can be used to get messages over long distances
– Trained and experienced at message handling
41
LU 4
Other Organizations
Military Affiliate Radio Service (MARS)
– Department of Defense Sponsored Auxiliary Communication
network
– Three separate managed and operated programs
• US Army
• US Navy/Marines
• US Air Force
– Nets on special assigned/allocated military radio frequencies
adjacent to the Amateur bands.
– Special Call signs are issued for MARS use
– Strict rules on message content and structure
– Mars is a backup military, federal, state and local
communications network during times of emergency
42
LU 4
Other Organizations
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) &
FEMA National Radio System (FNARS)
– A FEMA high Frequency Radio network designed to provide
minimal essential emergency communication capability among
federal, state, local commonwealth and territorial governments in
time of emergencies.
– FEMA monitors the FNARS frequencies on a daily basis at the
state level, typically located in the state emergency Operations
Center (EOC).
43
LU 4
Other Organizations
National Communication System (NCS)
– A federal agency that consists of 23 government organizations
tasked with ensuring the federal government has the necessary
communications capabilities under all conditions from normal
day to day to national emergencies. The manager of NCA is
also the Director of Defense Information Systems Agency
(DISA), Usually an Air Force General.
44
LU 4
Emergency Communication
may be more than ARES/RACES
• A variety of government and private emergency
communications groups assist in time of disaster. While
Amateur Radio groups operators may not interact with
many of these systems, it may help to know that they
exist, since a served agency with which we may work
may utilize or interact with one or more.
45
LU 4
Other Organizations
REACT
• A national EMMCOM group whose operators
can be from Citizen Band (CB) radio operators,
Amateur Radio, GMRS, FRS, and MURS.
• Has an organizational structure similar to ARES with
local teams who directly work with some of the same
Served Agencies that are supported by ARES
• REACT’s mission is somewhat broader that ARES.
They can provide:
–
–
–
–
Crowd control
Logistics
Public education
May not include communication
46
LU 4
Other Organizations
Emergency Alert System (EAS)
• The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is a national public
warning system that requires broadcasters to provide
their communications capability to the President to
National emergency.
• The system also may be used by state and local
authorities to deliver important emergency information
such as AMBER alerts and weather information targeted
to a specific area.
47
LU 4
Organization for rapid Response
Rapid Response Team (RRT)
• An RRT is a small group within a larger
EMMCOM organization that can put a few
strategically placed stations on the air quickly
– A level 1 team can deploy within ½ hour of the start of an
emergency with short term Jump kits for 12 to 24 hours
– A level 2 team will deploy within hours with more communications
and a 72 hour longer term deployment kit that might include:
• Tents, sleeping gear, change of clothes, portable repeaters,
extended food and water, personal medications as needed, spare
radios, Generator, etc.
– These teams may go by other names such as Quick Response
team (QRT), or Rapid Emergency Deployment team (RED team)
48
LU 4
Organization
ARES Mutual Assistance Team (ARESMAT)
• An agreement with other ARES groups to
provide assistance and resources in the
event of:
– A communications emergency lasting longer than
a day or two
– An emergency that requires more resources than are
available locally.
• Teams consist of hams who are willing to travel to
another location
– As an ARESMAT member you are under the direction
of the local group that made the request. They are in
essence a Served Agency that you are working for.
49
LU 4
LU4 Review
1. The ARES organizational structure
is best defined by the
ARRL Field Organization as
ARRL – Section – District – County
2. Within a Section, the ARES
Chain of command is:
ARRL Director
Greg Sarratt
W4OZK
KJ4G
Paul Eakin
SECTION MGR
WB4OMM
Steve Szabo
SEC
W4UFL
Jeff Capehart
DEC
Section Manager (SM)
Section Emergency Coordinator (SEC)
District Emergency Coordinator (DEC)
Assistant District Emergency Coord. (ADEC)
Emergency Coordinator (EC)
Assistant Emergency Coordinators (AEC)
Assistant DEC
W4UFL
Jeff Capehart
ALACHUA
KJ4YPY
Mike Simpson
GILCHRIST
VACANT
DIXIE
VACANT
LEVY
50
LU 4
LU4 Review
3. A level 2 RRT (Rapid Response Team) responds within a few
hours and is prepared with 72 hour jump kits for a longer
duration of service.
4. An ARES Mutual Assistance Team (ARESMAT) is an ARES
team willing and able to travel to another area.
5. A REACT teams resources may include CB, Amateur Radio,
GMRS, FRS, and MURS radio equipment
51
LU 5a
Served Agency
Communication Systems
• Most Served Agencies may have their
own equipment ranging from modest to
complex.
• You should work in advance with the served agency to
determine if you will bring and operate your equipment or
use theirs.
• Served Agency equipment may be quite different than
Ham Radio Equipment. You will need to understand how
to operate it.
• Operating protocol and terminology may be different.
Practice drills will help prepare you to use served
agency radio equipment.
• All communication needs to be succinct and
professional – no casual conversations.
52
LU 5a
Served Agency
Communication Systems
• Potential Served Agency Systems
– Medical Radio Systems
• HEAR System
• Newer Hospital Emergency Radios have 10 UHF
duplex frequencies and 7 VHF simplex frequencies
• Amateur Radio installed at SHANDS
– American Red Cross – National Freq 47.42 MHz
• ECRV Vehicle as well as ERV vehicles
• Chapter Radios
– Police
Public Safety groups moving to a new
digital communications system, APCO-25
– Emergency Management (EM)
• Communications Trailer
53
LU 5a
Communication Systems
– There are three types of shared or multiple user radio
systems you may encounter:
• Community (or city wide) repeaters where multiple
using agencies share the same repeater frequencies.
The users are differentiated by CTCSS tones from the
repeater. You must press the monitor button on your
radio to see if the frequency is in use by another
agency before transmitting.
• Shared simplex frequencies which share the same
concept of differentiating users by CTCSS tones except
on simplex. Again press the monitor button to insure
the frequency is not in use before transmitting.
54
LU 5a
Communication Systems
– Trunked Radio Systems
• In a trunk radio system, all users share a pool of
frequencies from five up to a maximum of twenty-eight.
Users are assigned a "group id" and field radios are
programmed to only pick-up transmissions for that
group. A computer, called the "site controller",
automatically assigns a frequency for users belonging
to the same group to communicate with each other.
This is done over a data channel called the "control
channel", which carries data that tells field radios what
frequency they are on. Trunk radio systems may have
one or more control channels.
55
LU 5a
Communication Systems
Trunked Radio Systems
• Since communications on a Trunked System never stay
on one frequency, monitoring these
communications with a conventional
scanner is virtually impossible,
especially in large metro areas where
a Trunked System can have dozens
and dozens of users.
• Because Trunked Systems require
complex repeaters and radios in
addition to designated/reserved
frequencies they are not currently
used for amateur radio communication
• Trunked systems can prioritize users
when there is a lot of traffic
56
LU 5a
Served Agency
Communication
• Additional Communications Equipment you may be
asked to operate
– Fax Machines
– Copiers
– Computer terminals – To send or forward messages
via e-mail
57
LU 5b
Disaster Preparedness
• Neighborhood Watch Program
• Homeowners Association
• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• Local Disaster Response Training
• Preparedness classes
• DHS/FEMA ICS (IS-100) & NIMS (IS-700)
58
LU 5b
Community Emergency
Response Teams (CERT)
• Trains in light search and rescue
• IS-317 Introduction to CERT
• Classroom training course taught by Emergency
Management
59
LU 5a
LU5 Review
1.
When emcomm members are called upon
to operate on public safety radio they
may not engage in casual conversations.
2.
Motorola’s trade marked name for CTCSS is
PL or Private line
3.
The newer medical emergency medical
radio service uses 10 UHF Duplex
frequencies and 7 VHF simplex channels.
4.
Amateur Radio does not currently use
(or allow) the Trunked Radio System
format.
60
LU 5a &5b
LU5 Review
5. When EMMCOMM teams work with Served Agencies
the Served Agency must provide training if Amateur
Radio operators are to be used effectively.
6. Amateurs might contact Neighborhood Watch,
Homeowners Association, and CERT Teams for
community preparedness efforts.
7. CERT is a volunteer program of trained people
operating in teams under ICS protocols.
61
LU 6
Basic Communication Skills
The job of an Emergency Communicator is to get the
message through to an intended recipient quickly and
accurately. Your ability to do this may be limited by:
• Operator Skills
• Communication method
• Noise –Electrical in the transmission path and acoustical at the
receive and transmit site when voice is used.
Important skills for a communicator are:
• Listen - Tune out distractions (use a headset if possible) and when
unsure of what you heard ask that it to be repeated.
• Be sure the message you copy is correct, ask for a
read-back to be sure.
62
LU 6
Use Good Microphone Technique
– Speak across the microphone not into it (unless you use a
desk mike)
– Use your normal clear, calm voice. Do not raise you voice or
shout
– Determine the voice level and microphone gain that works best
for you
– Wait a second or two after keying the Microphone before
speaking to allow the repeater to come up
– VOX is not recommended for emergency communication
– Pause between transmissions to allow for emergency traffic
– Remember if using a repeater most have a 3 minute time out,
but try to limit your transmissions to one minute then break to
check for emergency traffic
63
LU 6
Use Plain Language
• Do not use slang or jargon (technical slang)
• Do not use Q signals in voice transmissions
• Use simple language; “big words” may not be
understood by all
• Avoid words and phrases that carry strong emotion
Use Proper Phonetics:
ABCDEFGH-
Alpha
Bravo
Charlie
Delta
Echo
Foxtrot
Golf
Hotel
I- India
J- Juliet
K- Kilo
L- Lima
M- Mike
N- November
O- Oscar
P- Papa
Q- Quebec
R- Romeo
S- Sierra
T- Tango
U- Uniform
V- Victor
W- Whiskey
X- X-ray
Y- Yankee
Z- Zulu
64
LU 6
Use Pro-words
Clear- end of contact
Over- used to let a specific station know when to
respond
Go ahead- Used to indicate that a station(s) may
respond
Out- Leaving the air, will not be listening
Stand by- A temporary interruption of the contact
Roger- Indicated the transmission has been received
correctly and in full
65
LU 6
Using Tactical Calls
•
•
•
•
You do not need to know called stations FCC call sign
Makes the function/station location you are calling clear
Avoids confusion during shift changes
Use tactical call signs for public service and emergency
events
• You still need to identify with your FCC call sign
every 10 minutes
• Identifying at the end of each transmission will
indicate the end of transmission and insure you
meet the FCC identification rule
66
LU 6
LU6 Review
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
In emergency communication listening is 50% or
greater, not 10%
When transmitting, talk across the microphone
rather than directly into it
In emergency communications never use 10 codes
on Amateur Radio
On a tactical net it is still necessary to identify with
your call sign at a minimum of every 10 minutes
and at the end of your last transmission.
Giving your call sign is the most effective way to end
an exchange on a tactical net.
67
LU 7a
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Information:
• The Purpose of any net is to provide a
means for orderly communication within
a group of stations
• An emergency net is a group of stations
who provide communication to one or more
Served Agencies or the General public in a
communications emergency.
68
LU 7a
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Information:
• A formal or directed net is one with a
NCS (Net Control Station) who organizes
and controls all communication on the net.
To send a message you must ask permission
from the NCS. Then NCS will authorize message
transfer in an orderly fashion, frequently on another
frequency, based on message priority.
Directed Nets are the best format when there
are a large number of stations and/or a lot of
traffic.
69
LU 7b
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Information:
• On Open (Informal) Nets, the NCS is optional
allowing stations to call each other directly. The
NCS, if there is one, steps in only if necessary
when there is a large amount of traffic or
problems arise. Open Nets are usually used
when there is little traffic and only a few
operators.
• Most of the local ARES / RACES activities will
use formal nets.
70
LU 7a/b
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Types of Nets:
• Traffic Net – Handles formal written traffic in a
specified (ARRL) format. Traffic Nets operated
by the National Traffic System (NTS) are excellent
examples of how an ARES / RACES formal traffic net
should operate.
• Tactical Nets are used for real time coordination
of activities related to the emergency. A tactical
net usually has an NCS but may be directed or open.
• Resource or Logistics Nets may be needed to
acquire resources (food, water and other
supplies), accept volunteer check-ins and hand
out assignments. This is usually a directed net.
71
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Types of Nets:
• Information Nets are usually Open Nets used
to collect and share information on a developing
situation without overly restricting the use of the
frequency by others. Net members send updated
local information as needed and bulletins from
Served Agencies.
A good example of an Information Net is a
SKYWARN weather net activated during
a severe storm.
72
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Checking into an Emergency Net
• You need to “check in” to a net:
– When you first join the net
– When you have messages, questions or information to send
• To become part of a directed net wait for NCS to ask for
“check-ins” and listen to any specific instructions such as
“check-ins with emergency traffic only”
• At the appropriate time (or when directed) check in with:
– Your call sign only
– Your call sign followed by “with traffic”
– Your call sign followed by “with Priority Traffic”
– Your call sign followed by “with emergency Traffic”
Then wait for NCS to respond before offering more
information
73
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Checking into an Emergency Net
• If there is a long time and NCS has not asked for
check-ins and you have traffic or information you
may briefly call NCS when there is a break in
activity by stating your call sign
• If you have emergency traffic do not wait to be
called. Call Net Control as soon as there is
a break in the conversation
74
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Checking into an Emergency Net
• If you are not part of the organization, do not
just check in and offer to assist. Listen for a
while to understand the situation, what may
be needed and what you might offer the
organization.
• If you feel there is a need and something you
can offer to meet that need, you can check-in
briefly and ask NCS if there is a resource net
in operation, and go there. If there is no
resource net in operation make a brief offer of
assistance to NCS.
75
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Checking into an Emergency Net
• Do not be too surprised if you receive the “cold
Shoulder” when checking into a net where you
are not a member. The NCS on that net does
not know your technical skills or your ability to
work with their team. If you have a specific skill
you feel may be useful to their operation be sure
to mention it.
• If offered a menial task, take it, The NCS will get to know
you and you could be freeing up a needed member of
their team.
76
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Passing Messages
• When Checking into a net, tell the NCS you
have traffic to pass. They will usually ask you to
“list your traffic” with it’s destination and priority.
• You will not send your traffic until NCS tells you to
do so, more than likely on a different frequency.
Normally, NCS will tell the receiving station to contact
the sending traffic station for traffic.
• If you went to another frequency after passing your
traffic, return to the net frequency and tell NCS you have
passed your traffic so they can remove it from their list.
• If using Tactical calls be sure to also add your call at the
end of your transmission.
77
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
“Breaking” into the net
• If the net is in progress and you have emergency traffic
to send, you may have to “break” into the net
– Wait for a pause between transmissions and
simply say ”break <your call>” and wait for NCS
to respond by saying “<your call> go with your
traffic”
– You would reply “<your call> with emergency traffic”
78
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Checking out of an emergency net
• Always let NCS know you are leaving the net,
even if it is for a few minutes. If you do not
respond NCS may become concerned
and be forced to use valuable resources to
check on you.
• There are three reasons for leaving a net:
– The location of your station is closing
– You need a break and there is no relief operator
– You have turned the station over to another operator (be sure to
tell NCS the new operator’s name and call).
79
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Checking out of an Emergency Net
• If you are asked to shut down or move your
station by someone in authority, do so
immediately. Do not wait to notify NCS.
There is usually a good reason for such
a request, such as you could be in danger
or there may be explosive vapors that
could trigger with RF energy.
• As soon as you have moved or given
permission to transmit and can do it
safely, let NCS know what happened
and your current status.
80
LU 7
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Levels of Nets
• Network systems are often Layered for greater
operating efficiency. These Levels could be:
• By Area (LOCAL, County, National)
• By Function (Command, Traffic, Logistics, etc)
• By communication medium (UHF, VHF, HF, Packet,
ATV)
VHF NET
UHF NET
HF NET
PACKET NET
• Nets do not have to be voice nets. They can
be CW, Packet, PACTOR, AMTOR, and more.
Many in the Emcomm community are
experimenting with HF,VHF PSK31
and WinLink-2000.
81
LU 7a
Review
1.
A net can be best described as a group of
stations who gather on one frequency with
a purpose.
2.
Directed nets are used when the volume of
traffic is too great to be handled on a
first-come, first served basis.
3.
A tactical net would handle non-formal
communications for a served agency.
82
LU 7b
Review
1.
The major difference between an “open net”
and a “directed net” is the presence
or absence of full control by a
Net Control Station.
2.
A tactical net may be directed or open but
usually will have a Net Control Station.
83
LU 7
Review
4.
You should check into an emergency
net when you first join the net or when
you have messages, questions or relevant
information.
5.
The most frequent cause of errors on
voice nets is speaking too rapidly.
84
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Net Control Stations
• Every organization needs an executive level
manager to ensure everything runs smoothly.
For an Emergency Communication Net this is
the NCS (Net Control Station).
• The NCS is the “ringmaster” or traffic cop”.
The NCS decides what happens and when it
happens on the net.
• NCS can be located anywhere but should
be in a location where they can hear
everyone else on the net.
85
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Net Scripts
• Nets are usually opened and closed with a standard to
ensure the net will operate in a similar format every time.
Typical net script format includes:
– Opening –
• <your call>, name and purpose of net, and
type of traffic that will be passed.
• If a repeater is being used the frequency, offset and
tone are usually given
• Rules or procedure to break for emergency traffic
– Closing
• Thank Participants
• Time and date of net closing
• Return Repeater or frequency to normal use
86
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Acting or Fill-in NCS
• Filling in for an NCS to relieve them for a short time can
be excellent training.
– Watch what the NCS does and you will be able
to do it.
– This is not a military operation, treat members with
respect .
– Speak Clearly in a normal tone of voice.
– Make instructions clear and concise.
– Keep notes of what is going on.
– Have stations pass traffic on an alternate frequency.
87
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Relay Stations
• When NCS cannot hear one of the
stations on the net because of their location
they may ask one of the other stations on the
net to relay information back and forth.
Liaison Stations
• When it is necessary to coordinate with another
net, NCS will assign a liaison station role.
• The liaison station role is to pass messages
between the two different nets.
NCS
A
• This can be periodic check-in interval for
coordination or continuous monitoring of
the other net.
• The other NCS may also assign a Liaison Station.
NCS
B
88
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Net Members
• Operators at each site are responsible for
messages to and from their location.
• Must listen to all traffic on the net and maintain
contact with the Served Agency.
• Whenever possible there should be two
members at each site (one can log while the
other operates).
• Use Relay Stations to reach members of the net that can
not make direct contact with NCS.
89
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Other Modes Than Voice
• Digital modes can have some advantages for
an Emergency Net
– Packet modes like FM Packet, HF Packet and
PACTOR can provide automatic connection
between two stations.
– Provide some security since most folks with
scanners will not be able to read your messages.
– Does not require an NCS.
90
LU 7c
Net Operating Guidelines
Other Modes Than Voice
• Keyboard to keyboard packet, PSK31, AMTOR
and GTOR can be used
– May require an NCS station
• CW with experienced operators can be very
effective.
– Clean and accurate code is better than 30 wpm
sloppy code
– Make sure your sending speed is compatible with
the receiving stations ability to accurately copy.
91
LU 7c
1.
2.
3.
Review
In an EMCOMM operation the NCS is
responsible for all aspects of the nets
operation.
As acting fill in NCS you should avoid asking
stations to pass messages on the main net
frequency.
A “liaison station” is a station that passes
messages between two nets.
92
LU 7c
Review
4. Packet modes of operation include
FM Packet, HF Packet, and PACTOR.
5. If you are the NCS of a net involved in
EMCOMM operations and you notice
some other station is intentionally
interfering with your net move the
net to an alternate frequency (note1)
(note 1) Usually we do not respond to a station that is intentionally interfering
with a formal net, if possible ignore them. If they persist, follow number 5 in this
review
93
LU 7d
Introduction to Emergency Nets
Emergency Drills
FCC prohibits any use of Amateur Radio for the benefit of
an employer except under certain limited circumstances:
During Disaster Preparedness Drills
Can be government or non-government sponsored
Can be employees of entities participating
Non-Government Sponsored Drills
Limited to one hour per week
Twice in a calendar year can be up to 72 hours
New Ruling:
An ARES member using an employer-provided station to
check into a local ARES net as an individual is not
necessarily transmitting on behalf of the employer.
94
LU 7d
Review
1.
There is no limit on the amount of time a radio
amateur can participate in a government
sponsored drill on behalf of their employer.
2.
The maximum amount of time a radio amateur can
participate in a non-government sponsored drill on
behalf of their employer is one hour per week.
95
LU 14
Basic Message Handling-Part I
Formal and Informal Messages
•
Formal Traffic
– Formal traffic is done using the ARRL radiogram form or format.
– Formal traffic messages have all the necessary information for
tracking and determining the authorizing or originating person.
– If the message is going through more than just the originator and
recipient, formal written traffic is needed to prevent errors.
– Using the standard format in a formal message helps in the
accuracy of the received message.
96
LU 14
Basic Message Handling-Part I
ARRL Radiogram Form
• Informal Traffic
– Informal traffic is verbal or written and used when there isn’t time
to do a formal traffic message. Informal traffic is more difficult to
track and determine originators and authoring persons.
– Some emergency messages are best sent informally in the
interest of saving time such as requesting an ambulance for a
severely injured person.
– Some messages do not require a formal written message
because the message is of low value beyond the moment.
97
LU 14
Basic Message Handling Part II
ARRL Radiogram Form
Message Preamble
Assign a number
Priority level
Precedence
Number
HX
Station Call or Tactical place of origination
Place of Origin
Originating Station Call
Number of words
Station of origin
Check
actual time message originated
Date originated
Time Filed (PDT)
Date
Address, call sign or tactical destination of message
Address
Number: A letter or number assigned by originating message to track messages
Precedence: R -Routine, W- Welfare, P -Priority, Emergency
Handling: Instructions for operators handling and delivering the message (see next slide)
Check: Number of words or word groups in the text of this message (continuous
characters with no spaces)
Place of origin: The location (city and state) of party for whom message was created,
not necessarily the originating station location
Address: Name, address, city, state, Phone number of intended recipient
98
LU 14
Basic Message Handling Part II
ARRL Radiogram Form
What goes in the HX Block?
Pro Sign
Instruction
HXA (number) Collect land line authorized within (number) miles, unlimited if no
number is sent
HXB (number) Cancel delivery if not delivered within (number) hours of filing
HXC
Report date and time of delivery to originating station
HXD
Report to originating station the identity of the delivering station,
plus date and time. Report identity of station which relayed, plus
date and time, or if delivered report date and time and method of
delivery.
HXE
Delivering station get message from addressee, originate
message back to sender.
HXF (number) Hold delivery until (number) date
HFG
Delivery by mail or landline toll call not required. If toll or
expense involved, cancel message and service originating
Station
99
LU 14
Basic Message Handling Part II
The Message Text
the
quick
brown
fox
jumped
5
over
the
lazy
dog
X
10
the
dog
was
asleep
15
20
25
30
The Check for this message would be 14
35
100
LU 14
Basic Message Handling Part II
Signature and Tracking
Signature
Received From
Sent or Delivered
Signature
Station Call
Time (PDT)
Station Call
Time (PDT)
Date
By Operator (Call )
By Operator (Call) )
Date
•Signature is: Name, Call or Tactical name of originator of the message
•Additional information: Used for logging when and from who the
message was received and how and to whom the message was re-sent if
the message is relayed
101
LU 14
Basic Message Handling Part II
Sending Voice Messages
• Speak at a slow pace that allows receiving
station to write it down.
• Annunciate words for clarity. Use phonetics
if needed.
• Use pause in the message sections by
saying “break” to allow receiving station to
ask for repeats.
• For messages where accuracy is critical
you can ask receiving station to read back
the message.
102
LU 14
Basic Message Handling Part II
Sending Voice Messages
• Do not add unnecessary words or comments
to your transmission.
• Numbers are spoken individually i.e.: “Three
Two One ” not “Three hundred twenty one”
• Confirm the receiving station has the message
and no further questions before terminating
the contact.
W7GBU
• End contact with your call sign
103
LU 14
Review
1.
2.
3.
The preamble to an ARRL Radiogram
message will use the word “Emergency”
not letter or abbreviation.
If the preamble to an ARRL Radiogram
message contains the letters HXE the
delivering station is to get a reply from the
addressee.
In the preamble to an ARRL Radiogram
message the Time Filed block is usually
stated in UTC but during emergencies
should always be local time.
EDT
104
LU 14
Review
4.
The Check block in the preamble to an
ARRL Radiogram message contains the
count of words in the text of the message.
5.
In the text of an ARRL Radiogram message
punctuation should only be used when it
is essential to the meaning of the message.
105
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Message Handling Rules
• Do not speculate on anything relating to an
emergency. There may be hundreds of
people listening in on your communication
such as other amateurs, general public and
the media (using scanners). Consider more secure
methods of transmission like Packet for sensitive
information.
• Pass messages exactly as written or
spoken. Your job as a communicator is
accuracy along with speed. When relaying
messages do not correct what you believe
to be errors. Only the original Author can
make changes.
106
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Message Handling Rules
• Non-standard format messages can be
sent using the ARRL message format by
placing the entire non-standard message
in the text body of the ARRL Message form.
Importance of the Signature
• Some items requested in an emergency are
of high dollar value or have limited shelf life,
and may not be restockable. Without proper
authorization, requests may be delayed. Be
sure to have a name and title of the sender
in the signature block.
107
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Message Handling Rules
• Apparently misspelled words or confusing words
must be sent exactly as received. If you are
relaying a message you can ask the sending
station for read back to be sure you copied it
down correctly.
• If you think the message is incorrect or
confusing you have the option to send it back
to the originator. This is a judgment call and
should only be done if apparent error may affect
the message meaning.
108
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
ARRL Numbered Radiograms
• ARRL Numbered radiograms are a standardized
list of often-used phrases.
• To send the standard phrase you would send
the letters ARL followed by the number of the
phrase you wish to communicate.
• A complete list of phrases is contained on the
ARRL web site.
• When sending the following message “ARL, six , four”
(arrived safely at _______) would count as 3 words in
the text of the message.
109
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Modified Message Formats
• The ARRL message form can handle most situations,
but sometimes Served Agencies may request changes
or the use of another form such as ICS-213. Each
EMCOMM group should work with their Served Agencies
to determine which format best fulfills their needs prior to
an emergency call out.
Logging and Record Keeping
• An accurate record of formal messages handled and
your station operation can be very useful and may be
required by law in some cases.
110
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Logging and Record Keeping
• What do you log?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
All Formal Traffic, important informal traffic
Time and date received and transmitted/delivered
Message routing (received from and sent to)
Copy of the message
Setup, operation and teardown issues and time.
Power/communication failures
Any comments you think may be useful
As a minimum NCS should be keeping a Log.
• Plan for how and who will log before the event,
generate forms that you will use in advance.
• Your records will help in the debriefing and in
critiquing your organizations performance so
improvements can be made.
111
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Logging and Record Keeping
• Your logs should be clear and legible. Others
may be reading and using what you log. Printing
with neat block letters is recommended.
• Logs that may become legal documents should be
written with a pen.
• Logs kept in notebooks will prevent sheets from
becoming lost.
SEND 27
COTS x 24
MEALS x 1
FIRST AID
KIT
112
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Authoring the message
• Usually the Served Agency official will author
the message. You can help them to be sure
the message will be clear.
• Agency officials have the authorization and
if you are the author the request may not be
approved.
113
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Message Security and Privacy
• Information transmitted over amateur radio
can never be totally secure because FCC rules
prohibit us from using codes that obscure the
actual meaning of the message.
• Anything you transmit may be monitored by
the media and can legally be used by them.
• This does not mean your communication is
public information. You should treat the
information you communicate as privileged
and private.
114
LU 15
Basic Message Handling Part II
Message Security and Privacy
• Messages that contain personally identifiable
information such as names of victims or injured
should be sent by FAX, Landline Phone or
Served Agency secure links.
• While there is no way to ensure our messages
are not overheard there are some things
you can try
• Use an uncommon frequency
• Use digital modes like PSK31, RTTY, AMTOR
115
LU 15
Review
1.
2.
3.
As part of an EMCOMM group handling
message traffic in an emergency and given
a message with typographical errors, you
should forward the message exactly as received.
As part of an EMCOMM group handling
message traffic in an emergency you are
asked to forward a message in non standard
format, you should forward the message
exactly as received.
You have been asked to send an ARRL
Radiogram dealing with a birthday greeting.
The correct way to send this message is
“ARL FORTY SIX”
116
LU 15
Review
4.
When delivering an ARRL numbered
radiogram you should decode the
message into plain language.
5.
During an emergency, service messages
should only be sent for “Emergency”
and “Priority” traffic.
117
LU 16
The Incident Command System
The Incident Command System (ICS) is an outgrowth
from the early 70’s when multi agency responses to wild
fires in Southern California ended so disorganized that it
prompted Municipal, State, and Federal agencies to form
an organization to review the problems. The problems
uncovered were:
• Poor overall organization
• Ineffective communication between agencies
• Lack of accountability
• Lack of single well defined Command Structure and
commander
118
LU 16
The Incident Command System
The review team originally developed an Incident
Command System for wildfires, but the system ultimately
developed into an all risk system appropriate all types of
fire and non fire emergencies.
The ICS developed by the National Fire
Academy (NFA) has been widely recognized
as a model and tool for the command, control,
and coordination of resources at the scene of
any emergency and is used by Fire, Police and
other agencies around the country.
119
LU 16
The Incident Command System
The ICS has two interrelated parts. They are:
1. Management by objectives
•
Understanding policies, procedures and statutes affecting
response
• Establishing incident objectives (desired outcome)
• Selecting appropriate strategies
• Applying tactics likely to or necessary to accomplish objective
2. Organizational structure.
• Flexible organizational structure
• One person is in charge of all resources
• Tasks are sub divided into four major sections
• Operating sections can be scaled up or down as needed
120
LU 16
The Incident Command System
In addition to the incident commander there are four major
operating sections in an ICS. They are planning,
operations, logistics and finance/administration.
121
LU 16
The Incident Command System
The Incident Command System (ICS) is a management
tool designed to bring multiple responding agencies,
including those form different jurisdictions together under a
single overall command structure.
ICS is not
ICS
• A fixed unchangeable structure
• A means to take control authority away from agencies or
departments that participate in the response.
• A way to subvert normal Chain of command
• Always managed by the fire department or first agency on
scene
• Too big and cumbersome for small everyday incidents
• Restricted to use by government agencies and departments
122
LU 16
The Incident Command System
The incident commander is usually the most senior
on scene officer from the first responding agency. As
the incident continues for an extended period or grows the
person filling the Incident Commander position may change
but the role of the incident commander does not change.
Involvement in any Incident Command System is by
“invitation only” – There is no role for “off the street”
volunteers. The relationship between an emcomm
group to the ICS structure will vary with a specific
situation. You may not have any part in the ICS
Structure except through your served agency or
agencies.
123
LU 16
The Incident Command System
Emcomm volunteers are encouraged to learn and understand
the Incident Command Structure by completing the on line IS100 Introduction to ICS training on the FEMA website (let your
EC know if you take and successfully complete this class):
http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/IS100a.asp
Students name
124
LU 16
LU11 Review
1.
The letters ICS stand for Incident Command System
2.
ICS is a management tool for coordinating the resources of
several agencies within a single command structure.
3.
The ICS has two inter-related parts. They are management by
objectives and organizational structure.
4.
In addition to the incident commander there are four major
operating sections in an ICS. They are planning, operations,
logistics and finance/administration.
5.
The emcomm group may or may not be a formal part of the
ICS structure during an Incident.
125
LU 17
Preparing for deployment
Radios
Antennas
Food & Water
When preparing for a deployment or callout,
remember the Boy Scout Motto “Be Prepared”.
What should you be prepared for? As the
Founder of the Boy Scouts Baden Powell said
“be prepared for any old thing”. The same
preparedness goal applies to emcomm volunteers.
Being prepared requires advance planning and having a kit
of the things you will need ready to pick up and go. These
are called Go Bags or Jump Kits. With out prepared jump
kit you will likely leave a critical item or two home or take
valuable time looking for items when you are called
126
LU 17
Preparing for deployment
Before planning your Jump Kit you will need to consider:
–
–
–
–
–
How long you might be deployed (12, 24, 72 hrs or more)?
Will you have reliable power or will you need your own power?
Weather that might be encountered (en-route and at site)?
Will food, water and sanitary facilities be available?
How will you and your equipment get to the site?
Carrying an 80 AH battery may not be practical if you hike in
–
–
–
–
Can some kit items do double duty to save space and weight?
Will your emcomm post be fixed or mobile?
Will operating position shelter be needed (tarp, tent, Vehicle)?
What networks and nets will you operate in?
127
LU 17
Preparing for deployment
Your emcomm course book has a list of jump kit ideas on
page 74. (there is also a list on the ARES/RACES web site)
128
LU 17
Preparing for deployment
It may be efficient to sub-divide your kit into multiple kits so
you can take what you need for a particular callout with out
carrying everything. Some ideas are:
•
•
•
•
•
Quick deployment kit
VHF/UHF/HF kit for fixed location
Accessories and tools kit
Emergency power kit
Field Shelter kit
Pre-planning and physical preparation is the key to an
effective and timely emcomm deployment. Check your
Jump Kits / Go Bags regularly and rotate perishable items
like food and water.
129
LU 17
Preparing for deployment
Know the frequencies in your area:
• Know the local repeater frequencies and coverage.
• Know which repeater will be used and where the nets
are likely to be.
• Know where the nets may move to in case they experience
interference.
• Know what simplex frequencies will be used in case of
a repeater failure.
In Alachua County the primary frequency will be 146.820
repeater with 146.985 as a backup. Simplex operations
may be on 146.550 while 146.520 may be monitored for
call-ins. Support net for Red Cross may use 147.420 MHz.
130
LU 17
Preparing for deployment
Train with our served agencies:
–
–
–
–
–
Learn their expectations/needs
Learn their operation methods and protocol
Learn their organization
Identify possible operating locations
Determine if radio gear is available and how it operates
•
•
•
•
•
Emergency Management (EOC & Shelters)
American Red Cross (North Central FL Chapter – Gainesville)
Hospitals (Shands UF, Shands AGH, N. Fla, VA, Specialty)
Health Department
National Weather Service (SKYWARN)
131
LU 17
LU12 Review
1.
2.
3.
Preparing a Jump Kit in advance will ensure you will
not leave something at home or lose valuable time
looking for critical items when called.
A 12 hour deployment Jump Kit would not contain a
camp cot or tent. Your 12 hour Jump Kit would contain
an VHF HT or VHF/UHF HT, spare batteries, high
energy snacks and bottled water.
Your ID cards and other authorization
documentation should be among the most
important items to be included in your Jump Kit.
132
LU 17
LU12 Review
4.
A deck of playing cards is one of the least important
items for a Jump Kit.
A Jump Kit should contain:
• A frequency list and net schedules
• Contact information for your group and group leaders (EC, DEC,
SEC)
• Key Phone Numbers, e-mail and internet addresses
5.
If you are assigned to an emcomm operation
location in advance one of the least important
things you would need to know is the regular
business hours maintained at the
assigned location.
133
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
VHF / UHF Transceivers
– The most universal choice for emcomm is the dual
band 30-50 watt FM transceiver. This class of radio
is generally rugged, reliable and can operate at fairly
high duty cycles (an external cooling fan is always a
good idea and will prolong the life of the radio).
– A second radio to monitor other nets can be quite
useful. This can be an HT or just a scanner
programmed for the amateur frequencies likely
to be used (many of the newer HT’s have a
scanning function built in)
134
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
– When using a second radio be sure to use enough
separation between the antennas to prevent desensing the monitor receiver when transmitting
• Radio Receiver Performance
For radios on all bands there are several aspects of their
performance that can effect its suitability for emcomm.
• Sensitivity – The ability to receive weak signalsThis is primarily a function of the receiver front end
noise figure or how much noise the receiver front
end adds.
• Selectivity – The ability to reject signals on
adjacent frequencies while selecting the desired
frequency.
135
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
– Intermodulation Rejection – This is the ability of
the receiver front end to prevent undesired
signals from causing interference.
Intermodulation distortion frequently is caused by
interfering signals outside the amateur band.
Today's radios have wide frequency range
beyond the amateur bands that allow interfering
signals into the receiver front end. External
bandpass filters solve this problem.
– In the field changing to another frequency will
most likely eliminate the problem
136
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
HF Transceivers
– Unless you are running QRP HF radios require
significant power from emergency generators or
large batteries. Having an HF radio with both
AC and DC power (external Power supply or
battery) is desirable.
– Do not use DC to DC Converters to power HF rigs.
They may generate a lot of RF “hash”.
– HF radios with adjustable power output allow the
use of low TX power to extend battery life and
High power when needed to get through.
137
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
• Receiver filters are very important for HF receivers.
Choice of filters will depend on the mode of operation
(PSK, RTTY, CW and phone).
• Digital Signal Processing may be the
single most important filtering feature
available. Internal and external DSP
circuits can allow clear reception of
signals that otherwise might not be
possible in situations with high RF
location or path noise.
138
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
VHF/UHF Antennas –
• A good antenna mounted as high as possible is more important
than high transmitter power. Gain antennas increase your
effective signal strength allowing lower power operation for longer
battery life.
• A unity gain antenna like a J-Pole with fatter lobes may be better for
getting out of a valley
• Directional antennas are a better choice for Packet to prevent multipath interference.
• Hand held antennas known as “rubber duckies” have
negative gain (loss). Use at least a ¼ wave flexible
antenna for most operations and a 5/8 wave for more range
in open areas.
139
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
HF Antennas – There is no single perfect antenna for HF
operation.
– For local operation a simple dipole antenna mounted less than
¼ wavelength above the ground works well and is easy to
deploy. This is known as a NVIS antenna. An antenna tunner is
required.
– A random length wire antenna with a tuner could also be
effective. (needs a good ground connection)
– For long range, wire dipoles mounted high above the ground are
effective and if properly constructed will not need an antenna
tuner
– A trapped vertical antenna may work and a vehicle mounted
antenna (Hamsticks, screw driver,etc.) could also be used.
140
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
Feedline (COAX) –
• You will need enough coaxial cable to connect your
radios to the antennas.
• Open wire feed line is generally not a good choice
because of the difficulty of running it into a building and
possible undesired human exposure.
• For short runs RG58 may be useable but for longer runs
use lower loss cable like RG8X, RG8, RG213 or 9913.
RG8X is a compromise but because of its ease of
transport it can be a good choice.
141
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
Operating Accessories –
• Headphones are useful in any location,
mandatory in others to avoid disturbing
others and where multiple radios are in use.
• If you have a VOX (Voice Operated Xmit.) headset/mike,
turn off the VOX function and use manual push to talk
during emcomm events.
• If you need hands free operation consider
a desk microphone with a foot switch
142
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
Batteries –Battery operation is critical for emcomm
operations. You can not rely on AC power being available.
Choosing the right battery is a function of the anticipated
current drain (dependent on transmit power setting) and
expected duration of operations. Keep in mind that you
may not be able to recharge your batteries in the field.
– The ability to operate your hand held on disposable AA alkaline
batteries is a plus. Alkaline AA battery holders are available for
most HT’s.
– Have a cable to connect your HT, mobile, or HF rig to other
batteries by using Anderson Power Pole connectors
143
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
– For higher power needs, lead acid based batteries are available
from a few amp hour capacity to over 100 Amp Hour capacity
common types available include:
• Flooded cell automotive type (not recommended) and Marine deep
cycle type (recommended).
• Sealed Lead acid (Gel Cells)
• Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM)
– Whenever charging batteries make sure you follow
the manufactures or industry standard guidelines.
Batteries can be damaged or explode if they are
charged with too high a current or too high
a float voltage.
144
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
Other Power Sources –
–
–
–
–
–
–
Solar Panels and controllers
Gasoline driven generators
Wind and water driven generators
Human powered generators
Vehicle power and charging
DC to AC inverters to power computers
145
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
Other useful equipment –
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Multi Band Scanners
A voltmeter to check power sources (with leads)
FRS/GMRS/MURS hand held's
Cell Phone* to dial 911
(*does not need to be registered or have service to dial 911)
Battery operated AM/FM radio
Weather Alert Radio
Laptop Computer
Desk Microphone
Foot operated transmit switch
146
LU 18
Equipment Choices for Emergency Communication
And Most Important:
1. Test your station to be sure it all works and you have
all the necessary cables, coax, adapter fittings, charged or
fresh batteries. Field day and SET (Simulated Emergency
Test) would be an ideal time to verify you have a complete
operational station.
2. Be sure you have identified / marked all your items so
they can find their way home after the event.
147
LU 18
LU13 Review
1.
2.
3.
When Powering HF radios whenever
possible use deep cycle batteries rather
than automotive batteries.
When setting up a VHF/UHF radio a good
antenna is more important than high
transmit power
If space and resources permit, a beam
antenna has an advantage of maximizing
the desired signal path and reducing
interference from other stations.
148
LU 18
LU13 Review
4.
The optimum charging voltage for a 12 volt
lead acid battery is two volts more than the
rated voltage, or 14 volts
5.
The 30 amp Anderson power pole connector
can be plugged and unplugged a greater
number of times without deterioration than
the 10 amp Molex connector found on many
VHF/UHF mobile rigs
149
LU 18
LU13 Review
6.
Statements on ARES deployment clothing are:
 Three years (until Jan. 1, 2013) are being given to
“wear out” and replace older clothing
 The recommended standards increase
recognition and acceptance of ARES units
 The recommended standards apply only to
clothing worn on actual ARES deployments
150
LU 19
Emergency Activation
• The actual way emcomm volunteers will be notified of an
activation will be determined locally and as a function of
the emergency. In this lesson we will look at some of the
most popular methods.
• First every emcomm group should have a formal written
plan with its served agency to activate their members
when needed.
• The plan should be developed in detail and then reduced
to a simple check list that both served agency and
emcomm managers can keep nearby at all times
151
LU 19
Emergency Activation
The plan should detail the circumstances under which
emcomm activation might occur and should contain all
emcomm member names with phone numbers that are
periodically verified and kept up to date.
Possible group alerting systems
– Phone Tree
– Paging (a real pager or an HT with a
channel and specific CTCSS tone sent from the repeater)
– E-Mail Activation
– Self Activation (prepare and listen to repeater)
152
LU 19
Emergency Activation
I have been notified, now what?
–
–
In most cases go to the emcomm net or meet frequency.
If heading home to pick up your Go Bag
–
–
–
–
–
–
Fill your vehicle with fuel
Pick up supplies you may need for activation
Notify your spouse and Family about what is happening and set up
contact times and method for communication during the activation
Check in and let NCS know your availability
Have your Jump Kit / Go Bag ready to go
Do not go anywhere utill instructed to do so
153
LU 19
1.
2.
3.
Review
If a telephone tree is activated and you are
unable to reach one of your assigned contacts
on the list you should call all of those assigned
to the person on the list who could not be reached.
An “emcomm activation liaison” for a served
agency is the member of the emcomm group
who is alerted first by the agency.
Regarding emcomm alerting systems it is best
not to rely exclusively upon any single alerting
system.
154
LU 19
Review
4.
E-mail is best used as a backup alerting
system
5.
The NCS (Net Control Station) is so
important that several members should
be trained to take on the duties until the
assigned NCS checks in.
155
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• If you have a known assignment or are
available for assignment check into the
net and let NCS know you are available.
• Get your equipment loaded up and be
ready to go.
• When proceeding to your assignment
check in with NCS on your progress,
especially when travel is hazardous.
156
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
•
Check in with the person in charge at
your assigned location and tell them who
you are, why you are there and what you
can provide for them.
•
If you are asked to brief the staff of a served
agency about the privacy of amateur radio
you should tell them that there are no methods
by which the security of any message can be
assured on Amateur Radio
•
Expect the situation and assignment to
be fluid. Each incident is unique and
may change quickly.
157
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• At each station the EC or emcomm manager
should appoint one member to take a
leadership role as the station manager for
all operations at that station.
• When you accept the role of an emcomm
volunteer you do so knowing you will often
need to follow the directions of another
person. Cooperation and teamwork are
essential.
158
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• Expect that sometimes you may be a
leader and at other times you will be a
follower
• Plan ahead, if no building or inside
space is available for you and your
radio gear be prepared to operate
out of you vehicle or bring a tent
or other shelter.
159
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• When setting up your gear on a desk, table
or other location where someone else's “stuff”
is in your way, carefully store it in a safe place,
like a cardboard box you can seal, label it so it
can be safely stored out of the way until the
event is over.
• After the event is over place the box of
“stuff” back on the desk or table but leave it
in the box. Do not try to remember how it
was set up or try to place it back that way.
160
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• Your first order of priority will be getting a
station setup and checking in with NCS.
• Once your station is on the air and you have
checked in with NCS you can check your
location to determine what other resources may be
available:
– Computer/internet, fax machines, telephone lines
– Determining what frequencies and signal paths are available
(repeaters and simplex paths)
– Learn about the Served agency role at this location and their
communication needs
– Food Water, Sanitary facility availability
– Setting up additional radios (may need to wait for help)
161
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• Directions to end operation may come from the served
agency or from NCS.
• Unless there is imminent danger, when a
served agency manager tells you to end
operations you should notify NCS before
closing your station.
• If you had to close the station quickly because of an
emergency, contact NCS as soon as it is safe and let
them know what is going on.
162
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• Before leaving clean up the area you occupied and
remove any trash, coffee cups and pop cans that
accumulated during the event.
• After the event collect your messages and
notes and save them for an emcomm team
debrief session (sometimes your notes
and message copies will be turned over
to the served agency manager before leaving).
163
LU 20
Set Up, Operation & Teardown
• After an emergency station operation, your
emcomm group (and possibly the served
agency) will want to hold a debriefing session.
• The purpose of the debriefing sessions is to review what
worked well, issues that may have arisen and where
improvements are needed for future operations.
• Jotting down notes during the event will help
your memory for the debrief session that
follows the event.
164
LU 20
Review
1.
If you have been activated during an emergency and
have been told to report to an agency that is different
from your usual assignment you should introduce
yourself to the person in charge as the emergency
communicator assigned to that location
2.
If you are asked to brief the staff of a served
agency about the privacy of amateur radio you
should tell them that there are no methods by
which the security of any message can be assured
on Amateur Radio
165
LU 20
Review
3.
4.
5.
If you have been assigned to a site and the emergency
ends and the site manager asks you to close your
station; you should you should check in with the
emcomm manager or net control before closing down.
In preparing to leave a site after an emcomm event
you should not unpack all desk items you placed
in boxes and put them back in their original
locations.
The primary purpose for a debriefing after each
emcomm event is that affords an opportunity to
improve future emcomm activities.
166
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• One of the values Amateur Radio
brings to the table is a vast amount
of radio spectrum;
• Most local and regional emcomm traffic will be on 2
meter and 70 cm FM, or on 40, 60 or 80 meter SSB and
CW.
• VHF and UHF FM are preferred for most local operation
because the equipment is common, antennas are
smaller, and communications are clearer.
167
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• VHF and UHF communication range is
determined by terrain, antenna height
and availability of repeaters.
• For larger areas or those with out repeaters
most local emcomm operation will be on the
40 and 80 meter bands using NVIS (Near
Vertical Incident Skywave) antennas.
• Your jump kit should have a list of
frequencies commonly used for emcomm.
168
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• You should become familiar with coverage,
and features or each permanent repeater
• Are there dead spots in the repeater coverage?
• How much transmit power required to hit the repeater?
• What features are available (like phone patch, Echo Link
etc.)?
• How does the repeater identify?
• Does it have a courtesy tone?
• Does it have a time out, how long, how is it reset?
• Are there inks to other repeater systems?
169
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• You should become familiar with coverage,
and features or each permanent Packet node,
digipeater and other means of digital communication like
Packet-Pactor, WinLink, PSK31, RTTY, etc in your area.
•
•
•
•
Are there mail boxes?
Do they have digipeater functions?
Do they have bulletin boards?
Which software do they use, how can you communicate
through it?
• What other nodes can they connect to?
• How many communications can the support simultaneously?
170
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• If all else fails and simplex communications are
spotty consider placing a mobile station or
portable repeater on a hill top or on the top of a
tall building.
• Portable Battery operated repeaters are a
good resource to have available. They are
easily and quickly deployed when and where needed.
• Permanent repeaters designated for emcomm
use should have backup power available
(batteries and/or generator)
171
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• In addition to the main net frequency each net
should have several alternate frequencies
available. A couple in case of interference
on the main net frequency and a couple for
stations to pass traffic “off net”.
• If there is no direct path between NCS and the
emcomm station a relay station should be
identified to relay incoming and outgoing traffic.
172
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• Most served agencies will expect you to keep records of
your operations. Your records should include copies of
messages received and sent, station log memos and any
official correspondence.
• In Some agencies your station records are permanent
and important legal documents and must be treated as
such.
• To protect equipment and the messages you handle an
prevent distractions it is best to allow only the operators
who are on duty to be in the communications room.
173
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• Station logs should contain:
–
–
–
–
–
–
Arrival and departure times
Times for nets you can you checked into
Times for nets you can you checked out of
Message number, sender and addressee
Special handling instructions
Critical events (damage,
power loss, injuries,
earth tremors)
– Other emergencies
174
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• An unusual event such as an emcomm emergency
response to a disaster can create incredible amounts of
stress. When under extreme stress individuals can
become:
•
•
•
•
Disoriented & Confused
Unable to make decisions
Lose their tempers
Behave in ways they would not at any other time
175
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• Extreme stress can lead to nervous breakdowns
–
–
–
–
–
Take a break. You can’t do it all now
Step back and take a few deep breaths and relax
Prioritize your assignments and duties
Delegate some of your responsibilities
Do not take comments personally \ Look at them as constructive
criticism
– Pay attention to your own needs (Food, water, medical needs,
sleep)
– If someone is losing control of a situation bring someone else in
to assist (or let your manager know they need help)
– Take a minute to think before responding to a stress causing
challenge
176
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• If operating from battery power you will
need to:
• Have enough batteries for the expected duration
• Find a way to recharge them if long operating
times are required (may not be practical for slow
charge batteries)
• Have standard connectors on the battery and radio
• If using a gasoline generator think about it’s placement
to prevent Carbon Monoxide from entering inhabited
areas and ensure its acoustical noise causes minimum
disturbance to others.
177
LU 21
Operations and Logistics
• In the world of modern emcomm you may be asked to
handle other assignments for the served agency that
may or may not include communications.
At one time the answer was a hard and fast “NO”
• Today most emcomm groups will let their volunteers be
cross trained to perform a variety of served agency skills
that also involve communications:
–
–
–
–
SKYWARN weather spotting
Red Cross Damage Assessment
Red Cross logistics Jobs
Situations where you could do both jobs
178
Operations and Logistics
• Some Portable stations used during Katrina ranging from
an HT with gel cells to a kilowatt HF station
179
LU 21
Review
1.
2.
3.
Terrain, output power and antenna gain will
limit VHF simplex communication range.
Increasing antenna height, increasing
transmitter output power and moving
the antenna away from obstructions will
improve simplex reception (range). Switching
to a non-directional antenna will not improve
reception.
The FCC rules do not permit unattended
operation of simplex repeaters.
180
LU 21
Review
4.
Driving a delivery vehicle for a served
agency would not be an appropriate
assignment for an emcomm volunteer.
5.
Prioritizing you actions with the most
important and time sensitive first on the
list is a good means of dealing with stress
during an emcomm event.
181
LU 22
Personal Safety, Survival & Health
• As a disaster relief volunteer, do not get so involved in
helping others that you forget to take care of yourself.
You need to keep yourself in good condition so you are
able to assist others.
• Before leaving home for an assignment be
sure you have made all the necessary
arrangements for the security, safety and
general well being of your family.
• Set up a communication plan with your family.
182
LU 22
Personal Safety, Survival & Health
• In addition to your emcomm checklist you may want to
create a home and family checklist.
• Some things to consider:
– If you will be without power in an area where it will freeze drain
your water pipes.
– Heating fuel tanks should be filled
– Shut off power and gas
– Board up windows
– Move valuables to an upper level
– Ensure your family has reliable transportation with a full fuel tank
– Emergency food and water supply.
– Prescription medications
183
LU 22
Personal Safety, Survival & Health
• When You leave
– Food (2000 calories a day) Freeze dried camping food,
Energy bars, military style Meals Ready To Eat (MRE)
and small camp cook stove.
– Water (1 gallon per day recommended, 2-3 liters per
day to survive). Questionable water can be purified by
adding 2-4 drops (1/8 teaspoon) of unscented liquid
Clorox laundry bleach to a gallon of water and leaving
it sit for 30 minutes.
– Personal Hygiene items- Tooth paste, tooth brush,
deodorant soap or waterless hand cleaner
184
LU 22
Personal Safety, Survival & Health
• When You leave (continued)
– Prescriptions
– Extra glasses (or safety glasses) in
a hard, felt lined case.
– Cash – Do not assume there will be a cash machine
or that food an fuel can be paid for with a Credit/Debit card.
There is a sample personal survival and comfort check list on
pages 108 and 109 in your Emcomm I Training manual
185
LU 22
Personal Safety, Survival & Health
• Safety in unsafe places. Many times you will be sent to
areas that can be dangerous and pose safety risks.
–
–
–
–
–
Understand the environment before entering.
Wear appropriate clothing and if appropriate gloves and boots.
A hard hat might be appropriate in some situations
Avoid industrial areas where toxic chemicals nay be stored.
Always be sure you have more than one exit from your
operating location.
– Carry a Police or signaling whistle so you can let rescuers know
where you are if you need to be rescued
– Flashlight and if possible a chemical light stick
186
LU 22
Review
1.
Water purification tablets will not remove
Bacteria and dirt (it will kill bacteria but
not remove dirt).
2.
It is best to use two to four drops
(or 1/8 teaspoon) of plain, unscented,
liquid chlorine bleach to a gallon of water
to purify it for drinking.
3.
Keep spare eyeglasses or safety glasses in a hard
felt lined storage case in your go bag.
187
LU 22
Review
4. Because many disaster assignments are
in unsafe places you should always plan
more than one escape route from
buildings and other hazardous locations.
5. Your personal safety and well-being are a higher priority
than the mission.
6. An MRE meal is a package meal that
can be stored for a long period of time
and requires a minimum of preparation.
MRE stands for Meals, Ready to Eat.
188
LU 23
ARES PIO: The Right Stuff
• Public Information Officer (PIO)
“Providing the Right information to the Right people at the Right time so they can
make the Right decisions” -- FEMA Advanced PIO Course
•
Agency PIO
–
–
–
–
•
•
Media Relations
Part of the ICS Team
Silence is as bad as errors – rumors start
ICS standardize ways to be a unified voice
Unified Command (UC) – All agency PIOs report to the Joint Information
Center (JIC)
ARES PIO
–
–
–
–
Expert on Amateur Radio
Introduce other ARES members to the Media
PIO and operators are properly dressed
Avoid interviews with inappropriate dressed members
189
LU 23
Review
1. A Joint Information Center is established to:
 Formulate a unified voice and message
 Dispel rumors
 Provide a central location for media questions
2. If a reporter shows up at your ARES deployment,
but you’re not the PIO, refer them to the JIC,
designated Lead PIO or ARES PIO.
190
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• Amateur radio may not be the only radio
service for the job.
• Handing an official a hand held radio to stay
in contact with the ARES/RACES team may be better
than shadowing the official, epically when the official is
involved with sensitive issues.
• The amateur radio emcomm team should be equipped to
communicate with other communication networks and
types.
191
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• Some of the alternative communication radio services
require licenses, others require group licensed and still
others require no license at all.
• You can easily modify many of today's
2 meter/70cm radios to operate on a nearby
public service or business band radio service
frequencies. You should think carefully about how you
will use the modified radio vs. the risk of accidentally
transmitting on a frequency in another service.
192
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• CB (Citizens Band) radios
– No License required (Can’t ID with your Amateur
callsign but you can still use your old CB call
if you had one when the FCC issued licenses.)
– AM (Some SSB) - Voice communication only.
– 5 watts input to final maximum.
– Operate on 11 meters (26.965-27.405) on 40 assigned channels.
– Used by emergency teams like REACT
– Typical range is 2-8 miles for mobiles, 25 for base to mobile
operation,. FCC limits the max allowable range to 75 miles.
– Channel 9 is still monitored for emergency traffic by some
emergency responders in more rural areas. Truckers use
Channel 19 on the Interstate and other road networks.
193
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• FRS (Family Radio Service) radios
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
No License required
No Base Stations, only HT’s
FM voice communication only.
100-500 mw transmit power .
Operate in the 462 MHz range
14 channels with CTCSS tone capability
Used by emergency teams like REACT
Typical range is 1-5 miles
Channel 1 is monitored by REACT for emergency traffic
194
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• MURS (Multi Use Radio Service)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
No License required (the new Citizens Band)
Personal and business communication allowed.
Primarily for mobile and portable use.
Maximum of 2 watt transmit power .
Operate on 151-154 MHz, FM Voice only.
14 channels with CTCSS tone capability.
Used by emergency teams like REACT.
Range is similar to a 2 meter hand held on simplex.
195
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
License required – No Call sign
No Base Stations, only HT’s
FM - Voice communication only.
5 watt max transmit power on channels shared with FRS
50 watts on non FRS Channels
UHF Frequencies between 462.5625 to 462.7250 MHz
FM Voice only.
15 channels with CTCSS tone capability.
8 channels are paired with a repeater frequency 5 MHz higher.
No Frequency Coordination or assigned frequency for users.
196
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• Public Service Radio (Police, fire)
–
–
–
–
–
May allow you to train to use their radios.
Only use if directed by an officer
Keep transmissions short.
Cease transmitting if they tell you to
Do not modify your radios for these bands.
• Cellular and PCS Phones
– In smaller events these may still be viable
– Offer more security than Amateur Radio
– Can Send text messages
197
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• Marine Radio
– Allocated channels on the 160 MHz Band for
Ports and Inland waterways.
– No License requires for US waters operation.
– FM Voice.
– 25 watt transmit power
– Chanel 16 monitored by Coast Guard.
– Additional HF Frequencies allocated between 2 and 30 MHz for
long range SSB Communication
– IF you hear a vessel and no one is responding you are permitted
to answer the distress call and determine the nature of the
emergency and relay the message to the coast guard or other
authority.
198
LU 24
Alternative Communication
Methods
• Aviation Radio
– 108 to 136 MHz (108-118 for navigation,
118-136 MHz reserved for Voice communication).
Military aircraft use 225 MHz to 400 MHz
– AM Voice.
– Emergency frequency is 121.5 MHz for
commercial aircraft and 243.0 for Military aircraft.
• Non-Radio Communication
–
–
–
–
Land line telephone if it is still working
FAX
Email
Courier
199
LU 24
Review
1.
You can not use your amateur call sign on citizens
band even if you were a licensed amateur when 11
meters was an amateur band.
2.
Call at regular intervals on channels 9 and 19 when
trying to summon help on a citizens band radio.
3.
FRS Radios are readily available at low cost, operation
is simple and requires little training and there is no
licensing requirement for FRS. FRS radios have
limited range because they have low transmit power
and can not be connected to an external antenna.
200
LU 24
Review
4. Any individual can license a GMRS system for personal
and family use.
5. Data Emissions are not permitted on MURS (Multi-Use
Radio Service)
201
LU 25
•
What to Expect in Large Scale
Disasters
At the onset of a disaster:
– There is a huge increase of volume in traffic
on public service radio channels.
– Prolonged waiting periods to gain access to communications.
– Outages may occur in key areas.
– Messages are not handled in priority order and
are sometimes lost.
• As additional agencies arrive:
– There is a need for agencies to communicate with each
other but may be unable to use each others frequencies.
– Their communication procedures may be different.
– Agencies are reluctant to have others operate their equipment
202
LU 25
.
•
What to Expect in Large Scale
Disasters
During initial phase:
–
–
Agencies may need to contact
others more than 350 miles away.
Message reply delays lead to
deferred decisions on crucial matters.
• Different modes of communication are required in
addition to voice.
–
–
–
–
Volume data in printed form (High speed packet & Fax).
Morse code and PSK31 for difficult reception conditions.
Encoded data for privacy.
Telephone interconnects to and from radio systems.
203
LU 25
•
What to Expect in Large Scale
Disasters
During the first 72 Hours of a disaster:
– It takes precious time to overcome obstacles.
– Communication is one of the vital resources that can be difficult.
– The greatest concentration of relief effort is generally found in
incorporated cities served by agencies with paid professionals.
– Rural areas suffer because of their remoteness and limited
resources.
– Frequently the public is isolated, unable to call out for help or
determine what their course of action should be.
– Lack of information leads to further attempts to use the already
overloaded phone systems.
204
LU 25
What to Expect in Large Scale
Disasters
• After the first 72 hours the disaster area
usually remains in virtual isolation from
the rest of the world.
• The American Red Cross is the
organization that handles health
and welfare on behalf of the victims.
• Amateur radio plays an important role of
communicating health and welfare information.
205
LU 25
Review
1.
The first thing that happens after a disaster occurs is
a massive increase in the volume of traffic on public
service radio channels.
2.
One of the big issues in an emergency is that
agencies all use different frequencies and interagency communication is not possible.
3.
The greatest concentration of relief efforts during the
first 72 hours of a disaster will be found in urban
areas.
206
LU 25
Review
4. The American Red Cross is the
organization that handles health
and welfare on behalf of the victims.
5. In the initial 72 hours following a disaster
the disaster area usually remains in virtual
isolation.
207
LU 26
Hazardous Materials Awareness
• You may pass through a HazMat (Hazardous
Materials) Incident en route to an assignment
or be stationed at a HazMat incident.
• HazMat materials include liquids, solids and gasses that
are corrosive, poisonous , or radioactive, explosive or
otherwise hazardous to your health and that of others.
208
LU 26
Hazardous Materials Awareness
• Proper training is required for your safety around HazMat
incidents.
• The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is
responsible for the safety regulations for the
transportation of hazardous materials.
• DOT has defined Hazardous materials by a
class designation and has established
standardized Hazardous material in placards
and other markings requirements for vehicles
transporting them
209
LU 26
Hazardous Materials Awareness
• All freight containers, railcars, and trucks transporting
Hazardous materials must display the diamond
shaped placard identifying the class (or classes)
of materials they are carrying.
• A commonly seen placard is the one with the number
1203 (Petrol) will be seen on Gasoline tankers delivering
fuel to your local service station.
• The sign placard with 1993 is for
diesel fuel
210
LU 26
Hazardous Materials Awareness
• The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has
devised a marking system to alert fire fighters to the
characteristics of hazardous materials stored in
stationary tanks and facilities. The system is known as
the NFPA 704M. In consists of a diamond shaped
placard with 4 smaller diamonds.
• The numbers in the diamonds represent the hazard to
humans on a scale of 1 to 4 (4 being the highest).
The colors are
• Red - Fire Hazard
• Blue - Health Hazard
• Yellow - likelihood to explode or react
211
LU 26
Hazardous Materials Awareness
• You should report what you see if asked, but do not get
to close to the HazMat Incident. Information that would
be helpful to report would be:
• Location of incident and location
• What kind of incident
• Spill
• Gaseous cloud
• Any visible placards on building, tanks or vehicle
212
LU 26
Review
1.
You should be located as far away as necessary to
ensure your safety when in the vicinity of a HazMat
incident.
2.
The Department of Transportation is
Responsible for warning the public about
hazardous materials containers and
shipments.
3.
You should be far away so that no vapors
or fumes are present before transmitting
in the area of a HazMat incident.
213
LU 26
Review
4.
On the sides of transporting vehicles different classes
of hazardous materials are identified by placards, four
digit numbers and warning labels or icons.
5. Gasoline tankers filling a neighborhood
gas stations underground tanks are
identified with a placard bearing the
number 1203
1203
214
LU 27
Marine Communications
• The most common for marine
communication is
–
–
–
–
VHF FM voice
Range is 1-15 miles ship to ship
Range is 20-30 miles ship to shore
In the 156-162 MHz range
• Vessels outside the FM communication range will have
MW/HF or satellite radios for communication .
215
LU 27
Marine Communications
• Marine FM radios are marked in channels rather than
frequency.
• The Marine FM channels are assigned for specific
purposes:
•
•
•
•
Channel FM 16 – Calling frequency and distress calling frequency.
Channel FM 9 – Alternate calling frequency.
Channel FM 83 – Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Channel FM 22 – Communication with the Coast Guard, but only
when specifically instructed to go there.
• Channel FM 23 – Us Coast Guard
216
LU 27
Marine Communications
• Calling an emergency on a marine radio:
– MAYDAY-MAYDAY - Highest priority distress
signal, grave danger, immediate assistance is
needed.
– PAN-PAN (pronounced Pawn - Pawn) urgent
call concerning safety of vessel or person.
– SECURITE - Official message regarding safety
of navigation or weather warnings.
– SILENCE – The Coast Guard may order silence
on a specific channel and limit it’s use to activities
involved in an incident or emergency.
217
LU 27
Marine Communications
• The following information should be obtained from the
vessel in distress:
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Position of the vessel involved (GPS lat/long if possible)
Number of persons on board
Nature of distress
Name and call sign (if there is one) of the vessel
Type and length of the vessel
Description of the vessel including color
Weather conditions on scene
If they have an EPIRB or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) on
board and it’s class
218
LU 27
Marine Communications
• Once you have the information advise all persons to don
their life jackets.
• Then call the nearest USCG facility or 911. Let them
know how to contact you in case you are the only link to
the vessel in distress.
219
LU 27
Review
1. It is only permissible to use Marine FM channel 22
when Instructed to do so by the Coast Guard
2. If you hear a marine distress call and it goes
unanswered after listening, you should respond and
gather all the information possible then contact the
nearest Coast Guard facility
3. You must identify yourself on all transmissions on a
VHF Marine radio
220
LU 27
Review
4. Only Seagoing vessels operating outside the range of
VHF communication are authorized to transmit on the
marine MW/HF SSB frequencies.
5 Marine FM channels 9 and 16 can be used to call
another vessel
221
LU 28
Modes, Methods and Applications
You will need to choose the best method of communication
for each situation in an emcomm environment.
Communications concepts to consider.
• Communications modes fall into several categories:
–
–
–
–
–
–
Point to point – Telephone and some digital modes
Multi-point – Voice and CW and some digital radio modes
High precision – Fax, e-mail and digital modes
Low precision – Voice, CW and Telephone
High priority – Voice, telephone
Low priority – Fax, e-mail, digital modes, CW
222
LU 28
Modes, Methods and Applications
• Messages fall into similar categories:
– Point to point – Messages intended for one party.
– Point to multi-point – Messages intended for a group.
– Multi-point to point – Messages from group members to
one station .
– High Precision – Lists of items, medical or technical
terminology, specialized or detailed information.
– High Priority – Fast delivery is critical.
– Low priority – Messages can be delivered in a more
relaxed time frame.
223
LU 28
Modes, Methods and Applications
• Each message type should be sent using the
most appropriate mode based on the message
content and destination.
• Remember radio may not be the only means of
communication available at a site. For example,
if you are at a Red Cross shelter with power:
– Consider using a power supply for the radio to save batteries.
– If fax or telephones or internet are available at both ends use
them, but be prepared should they go down on either end to use
radio communication.
224
LU 28
Modes, Methods and Applications
• Do not use voice for messages that are long,
detailed, or technical in nature if an alternate
means or mode is available.
• Think about who may be monitoring before
sending sensitive or private information.
Consider that the press, general public and
thieves may be monitoring what you transmit.
– Some modes provide an increased level of security
– No amateur radio transmission is totally secure.
225
LU 28
Modes, Methods and Applications
Digital modes:
• Can be useful in passing large volumes of traffic.
• Can provide error free transmission (many have error
correction) of input data, can be saved at either end for
re-transmission, printing or archiving.
– What digital modes are available?
• For HF the best digital modes are Packet, AMTOR
mode B and PSK31.
• For VHF/UHF The TNC 2 (Terminal Node controller
version 2) Packet is the most common
226
LU 28
Modes, Methods and Applications
Additional Modes
– APRS for location and short messages
– Amateur TV
• Slow Scan images via HF
• Real time TV on 70 cm and above
227
LU 28
REVIEW
1.
Your purpose as an emergency communicator is to
provide accurate and rapid transfer of information
from one place to another.
2.
Tactical messages are generally low precision and
time critical.
3.
Long lists and detailed messages are best handled by
FAX or Digital mode transmissions.
228
LU 28
REVIEW
4.
If absolute privacy is required do not transmit the
message by amateur radio.
5.
The QPSK mode of PSK31 features error correction.
229
LU 29
Other Learning Opportunities
• Regularly scheduled nets provide an excellent
opportunity to practice net procedure. Nets are also a
good opportunity to practice being net control operator.
• Local ARES/RACES formal training and both on and off
the air.
• Public service events and formal training like SET,
SKYWARN recognition day and Field Day offer excellent
setup and on the air practice.
230
LU 29
Other Learning Opportunities
•
There is additional training and resource material
available on the ARRL website that can be downloaded
and printed for free:
•
•
•
•
ARRL Public Service manual
ARES Field Resources Manual
ARRL Net Directory
Alachua County ARES/RACES web site
Check your training manual for additional resources
231
LU 29
Review
1.
Regularly scheduled nets, on air training sessions and
public service events are recommended as a means of
practicing actual emcomm skills. Discussion groups
are not a means of practicing communication
skills.
2.
The purpose of the ARRL’s Public Service and
Emergency Communications Management for
Radio Amateurs course EC-016 is to prepare
individuals for management level jobs such as EC,
DEC or SEC or other leadership or training roles.
232
Congratulations!!
You have completed the
ALACHUA County ARES/RACES
ARRL EMCOMM BASIC training class!!!!!
233